THE success which Brendan Rodgers has savoured since becoming Celtic manager a year ago this very day is certain to have generated interest in him from clubs down south and further afield.
Yet Rodgers, yesterday named as official Ladbrokes Premiership Manager of the Year as well the William Hill Scottish Football Writers’ Association Manager of the Year, has given another strong sign he will remain at Parkhead for some time to come Listening to the Irishman, whose side will be presented with the Premiership trophy tomorrow after their final league game against Hearts at Celtic Park, talk about his happiness in his current role and his long-term vision for the club yesterday, it seemed highly doubtful he will be departing any time soon.
“It’s about being happy and I’ve found a real happiness here,” he said.”I could go elsewhere and be financially a lot better off. But I’ve learned through time and experience that life’s about more than that.”
Should Celtic, undefeated in the 45 domestic fixtures they have been involved in so far this term, add the William Hill Scottish Cup to the Betfred Cup and Ladbrokes Premiership trophies this season, they will complete only the fourth treble in their 129 year history.
What would there be left for Rodgers to achieve then?
Asked about the possibility of Celtic making a greater impression in Europe, he said: “It’s a huge task and it’s a huge ask. The budgets are night and day different. The revenue streams are very, very difficult, but we have to push. We have to do our very best. It’s always going to be very difficult. I’m optimistic, but I’m realistic.
“People go back to the era when Martin [O’Neill] was here, but there was a big financial input into the club and it’s nowhere near that now, with all due respect.
“How can we find a way? Can we find it through a football idea? Can we bring the club together with a philosophy that runs right the way through, that’s ingrained within the kids, through the development teams straight on to the first team ... There is so much there that we can develop and improve. However long I’m here I want to influence, where it’s required and in the most positive way that I can.”
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